Best Atlanta Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving

For many of us, the Thanksgiving holiday is generally ruined by all of the agony surrounding cooking the big meal. Whether you are the cook running around for days trying to purchase all of the ingredients and deliver the perfect meal, which will inevitably disappoint someone, or you are the guest fretting about what to bring to mollify a demanding hostess, the day can be full of stress and complications. This year, why not consider going to a restaurant, where everyone can relax and enjoy themselves. Best of all, you don’t have to clean up afterwards and stare at a mountain of leftovers in your fridge.

The Colonnade is one of Atlanta’s oldest traditions, so of course it is a great place to have a traditional holiday meal. It won’t be light on the waistline, but it’s Thanksgiving after all. The restaurant is known for its homey, comfort food like fried chicken, rolls and fresh country vegetables. It makes its own pies, too, so be sure to save room for dessert. Thanksgiving service will last from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Ray’s on the River is another longtime Atlanta favorite, with three locations throughout the city (see the website for the one nearest to you). Ray’s often does fantastic brunches for Mother’s Day and other holidays, and its Thanksgiving spread will not disappoint. Beginning at 10 a.m., Ray’s will be serving brunch and breakfast fare, and beginning at about 2:30 p.m., diners will be treated with traditional Thanksgiving delights. The dinner service will last until 8 p.m. You can relax knowing you and your family will be taken care of in style. Make your reservations early.

If you would like to impress out-of-town guests with a fashionable restaurant in downtown Atlanta during your holiday meal, Park 75 is a great choice. Of course, the restaurant is known for its extravagant meals, but there should be a full holiday menu to choose from on the big day. The restaurant is also well known for its wide array of signature cocktails. A long meal with the family always goes over better if you start with a stiff drink, right?Related: Best Caterers In Atlanta

Rosebud is another local favorite that is known for hosting an annual fried chicken festival. It is in the trendy Morningside neighborhood, just outside of Virginia Highlands. You will get a real local feeling when you sit down to enjoy its hearty fare with your family. Rosebud’s Thanksgiving dinner is served family style and doesn’t skimp on all of the fixings. It’s a warm, smaller spot that will give you all the pleasures of a home-cooked meal without the clean-up.

South City Kitchen is part of the Fifth Group of Atlanta restaurants, delivering upscale Southern fare. Think shrimp n’ grits, fried chicken (of course) and real, buttermilk biscuits. It’s the perfect place for your annual indulgence. Again, make your reservations for the holiday early, as this popular spot is likely to be booked up. Thanksgiving will include a three-course meal featuring a traditional Turkey Day spread along with South City Kitchen favorites at $45 per person.